KTT Mallo vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mallo and KTT Purple Click stand out as excellent options with distinct characteristics. The Mallo switch embodies subtlety and finesse, providing a gentle tactility that is just noticeable enough for feedback without being overpowering. With a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo strikes a balanced chord for typists in various environments. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch is renowned for its high-pitched, satisfying click that adds an invigorating crunch to each keystroke. Offering a pronounced tactility without overwhelming the user, the Purple Click strikes a perfect equilibrium between feedback and typing comfort. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Mallo and the KTT Purple Click feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Despite both switches having the same material for their top housing, the overall sound profile may still differ slightly based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the KTT Mallo and the KTT Purple Click opt for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it absorbs more sound due to its softer nature. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that utilize nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this housing material for the bottom, the difference in the top housing material may still contribute to variations in sound and feel between the two.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of the KTT Mallo and the KTT Purple Click, the differences in housing materials between the top and bottom can be observed in the typing experience. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing the key. Both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, allowing for a unique combination of sound characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, we can see that the Mallo has a lower actuation force of None grams compared to the Purple Click's 40 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. The Mallo offers a lighter actuation force, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Purple Click requires a slightly heavier push for each keystroke. When it comes to bottoming out, both switches provide the same amount of force, giving a consistent typing experience in terms of pressure needed to fully press the key. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mallo for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier feel of the Purple Click for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force, ensuring a similar typing experience in that aspect.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect to feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. While both switches offer a consistent travel distance, the KTT Mallo and the KTT Purple Click may differ in terms of overall feel and sound due to their respective tactile and clicky characteristics. Ultimately, users can expect a similar experience in terms of travel distance when using either of these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The KTT Mallo tactile switch is known for its subdued and neutral sound profile, providing a versatile option for various typing environments. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch offers a crunchy and resonant sound, with a satisfying high-pitched click that adds an immersive auditory experience to typing sessions. Depending on your preference, you can choose between the gentle and subtle sound of the Mallo or the more pronounced and invigorating sound of the Purple Click.
When it comes to feel, the Mallo offers a feathery and mild typing experience, reducing finger fatigue with its light actuation force. Additionally, the Mallo is described as stepped and subtle, providing a comfortable and approachable typing sensation. In contrast, the Purple Click switch offers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. It is also described as stepped, similar to the Mallo, providing a more mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches.
Overall, the KTT Mallo and Purple Click switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a subtler and gentler typing experience, the Mallo may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more immersive and invigorating feel with a satisfying click sound, the Purple Click switch would be the way to go. Both switches provide a balanced typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and quality.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mallo tactile switch or the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you are looking for a switch that offers a subtle tactility with a medium-light typing feel and a neutral sound signature, the Mallo may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a pronounced click and a higher-pitched sound profile, along with a light keystroke and a satisfying tactile feedback, the Purple Click may be more to your liking. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Mallo and Purple Click switches depends on what typing experience you are seeking.